Trip to Ark Encounter, Louisville and Lexington KY

March 10th - 13th, 2023, the ICOA took participants to experience the Ark Encounter in Lexington, KY.

The Iredell Council on Aging (ICOA) plans yearly overnight trips for individuals 60+ years old, as well as those traveling with them, to enjoy a vacation at an affordable price. The ICOA books these yearly trips through the touring company, PML Travel and Tours, who organizes and makes the accommodation for attendees. At least one staff member of the ICOA attends the trips as the leader, ensuring that everyone’s needs are met to the best of their ability while enjoying the scheduled events for each day.  

Attendees on the trip got to experience the Ark Encounter in Lexington, Ky. The Ark Encounter features the full-size Noah's Ark of three decks filled with scores of world-class exhibit bays that allows you to experience what life on the ark may have been like. The exhibits had sound effects, creating the feeling of being there in person! Exhibits showed how Noah could have cared for all the animals, how his family lived, and how the Ark was big enough to hold everyone. Outside of Noah's Ark, there is the Ararat Ridge Zoo and Petting Area, as well as eateries such as Emzara's Kitchen.

The trip also included guided tours of Louisville, Ky, the Slugger Museum, the Derby Museum, and a walking tour of Churchill Downs! 

What Was Everyone's Experience?

Attendees had a wonderful time and made special bonds with one another! 

All our trips are traveled on coach buses, with designated drivers through PML. Attendees do not have to be a member of the ICOA’s senior centers in Statesville and Mooresville, or a resident of Iredell County. We allow registration from any older adult, and their family or friends of all ages traveling with them. The only requirement is for attendees to meet at our local location on the departure day.  

Many attendees on this trip were either not familiar with the Council on Aging and the senior centers or took the trip without a partner. Despite this everyone was friendly and easily bonded, making new fellowships to continue following the trip. As a result, many were excited for the rest of the overnight trips planned for this year as they were departing from the bus. 

(Photo Credits: Bill Allman)

What To Expect Next!